Are you thinking of buying a solar electric (also known as photovoltaic or PV) system for your home or business? If so, this guide provides basic information to help you select a system that makes sense to you. Investing in a solar electric system allows you to produce your own electricity without noise, air pollution or moving parts while using a clean, renewable fuel resource. A solar electric system is really the only renewable electricity generation technology suitable for cities and neighborhoods. Benefits are felt on the local, national and global levels, as new jobs are created, energy imports are decreased and the economic impacts caused by sudden increases in the cost of fossil fuels are reduced.
The world’s solar electric market is booming. In Japan, Germany, Spain and
California, it is becoming a mainstream technology. Sales of solar electric systems have recently been increasing at an annual rate of 40 percent and are anticipated to grow at high rates for decades. Demand is so great that there is a current shortage of solar electric modules.
Solar electric systems are fully commercialized:
- The modules have warranties of up to 25 years and are made by companies
such as Sharp, General Electric, Shell, and Kyocera - The inverters have warranties of five to ten years
- Wisconsin has a rapidly growing network of certified installers.
Although systems are expensive, they are becoming more affordable as energy prices increase. Focus on Energy, utility, and federal incentives are also available to help reduce their costs. Solar electric systems should operate for 40 years to 50 years with little maintenance. Once purchased, they provide free green power for decades. This guide summarizes the information you may want to consider before purchasing a grid-tied solar electric system. This is not a technical guide for designing or installing your system—for that information, you need to consult an experienced full-service solar electric installer2. A solar electric system is a substantial investment and, as with any investment, expert advice and assistance help ensure success. Informational resources on incentives, installers, information and utilities are included at the end of the consumer’s guide. (continued…)
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